[Past Event] Flying the Flag

Presented by Midsumma x Convent Live.

Contemporary British artist Annabel McCourt is ‘Flying the Flag’ for queer history.

For the first time, Annabel McCourt exhibits her work in Australia as part of the British Council – UK/Australia Season 2021-22 themed ‘Who are we now?’

This flag series begins with a downward-pointing triangle (a badge of shame originating in Nazi Concentration Camps, re-appropriated as a symbol of resistance and since used by the larger LGBTQI+ community as a symbol of pride).

Moving chronologically, Flying the Flag brings relevant elements from Lincolnshire’s (artist’s home county) history and significant moments within other LGBTQIA+ records.

This series combines seemingly naïve but powerful white-on-black designs, echoing the use of body inking and gang symbols by dangerous white supremacist groups, with bright flags with colours taken from a deconstructed ‘Rainbow Flag’. The flags also question colonialism, representation, rule and identity.

Accompanying the flags are films highlighting McCourt’s celebrated queer work, Electric Fence.

Hate crime is an ominous, prevailing presence in contemporary society. Borders, barriers and warning signs have come to be a part of our everyday life. Still, are we being kept out, or is something being kept in?

A thought-provoking and confrontational piece, Electric Fence encourages viewers to examine the perceptions, challenges and preconceptions that impact us all in modern life and compels us to turn to face them. Inspired by homophobic hate speech Electric Fence is grim yet unforgettable and provides a powerful reminder of our own wicked potential.

About

Convent Live is a special program celebrating the Convent’s collaboration with incredible arts and creative industries leaders to inspire our community.

Access

• The gallery, where this event takes place, is wheelchair accessible.
• Entrance to this space is wheelchair accessible.
• The exhibition will take place inside.

Bathrooms

• There are wheelchair accessible bathrooms close to the venue in the Covent building.
• All-gender bathrooms, separate to unisex accessible bathrooms, are available within the Covent building.

Your safety is our priority

View the Convent’s COVIDSafe plans here.